Though it managed a first quartile performance last year, its consistent track record ensures that it does not deviate too far from the average. In the 16 quarters of its existence, this fund has underperformed its category just four times. The fund has been pretty flexible in managing its maturity profile and certainly does not refrain from taking higher maturity bets as and when required. In 2010 it tended to go with a higher than average profile but reversed that in 2011. In October 2010, it shot up to 7.63 years when the category average was just 4.19 years. It started 2011 at 0.62 years (category average: 2.23 years). In December 2008, it hit a maximum of 15.52 years (category average: 7.37 years). Unfortunately, when yields moved up early 2009, the fund manager was not quick enough. And that hit the fund’s performance. It may not be an out-and-out high flier but has been an above average player and deserves a second look. With a small asset base, the expenses are relatively on the higher side.
This article was originally published on March 27, 2012.